Daily Archive : Tuesday January 21, 2014

News

Vernon Hills’ longest-serving manager to retire
By Mick ZawislakAfter 15 years, Mike Allison, the longest serving, and one of only four, villlage managers in Vernon Hills history, is retiring at the end of the week. “If you’ve had some goals and ideas in mind and now that you’re cut loose, so to speak, it’s intimidating but exciting," he said.

9th congressional GOP hopefuls differ on many issues
By Melissa SilverbergRepublican voters in the 9th Congressional District will have two very different candidates to choose from on the March 18 primary ballot as David Earl Williams III and Susanne Atanus battle for the nomination to face Rep. Jan Schakowsky in the fall.

Naperville expanding number of charging stations for electric cars By Marie Wilson
Drivers of electric vehicles soon will have three more places to get a charge in downtown Naperville -- but at a price. The city council on Tuesday night approved the $3,744 purchase of two new charging stations that each can refuel two electric vehicles at a time. The move will increase the number of downtown charging locations for electric vehicles in need of juice from one to four. But getting...

Rolling Meadows not liking Walmart’s traffic plan for market By Deborah Donovan
While at least five Rolling Meadows aldermen seemed Tuesday to favor Walmart building a Neighborhood Market and drive-through pharmacy in an old bowling alley, only two of them approved of the company’s proposal to handle traffic exiting to Kirchoff Road. Mayor Tom Rooney called the Wal-Mart traffic plan “awkward at best and counterproductive at worst.”

Dist. 300 superintendent Bregy leaving for new job By Lenore T. Adkins
Michael Bregy, superintendent of Community Unit District 300, is leaving the sixth largest school district in the state to head Highland Park-based North Shore School District 112, officials confirmed Tuesday night. Bregy, 47, has spent 14 years in the Carpentersville-based district. “I would not be the educational leader that I am today without my experiences in District 300,” Bregy...

Drowned man's family wants Geneva, park district held liable By Harry Hitzeman
Legal Affairs Writer
Relatives of a Naperville man who drowned in August 2011 trying to save his girlfriend's son has appealed the dismissal of their lawsuit. A lawyer for the relatives of Randy Suchy argued Tuesday in appellate court that the city of Geneva and the Geneva Park District did have control over that area of the river and should be held liable for Suchy's death.

Prospect Hts. mayor optimistic about apartment proposal By Deborah Donovan
Although three of Prospect Heights' five aldermen express reservations about a large upscale apartment complex proposed for the property where HSBC once stood, the company will continue to seek approval, Mayor Nick Helmer said this week. The Finger Cos. wants to build the apartments on about eight of the 31 acres that Allstate Insurance Co. owns at 2700 Sanders Road, west of Sanders Road and...

Des Plaines lowers bill for Guadalupe event to $7,000
By Christopher PlacekDes Plaines police department officials have agreed to lower their bill from $30,000 to $7,000 for providing traffic control last December during the Our Lady of Guadalupe feast day celebration. Police Chief William Kushner said an agreement was reached with organizers. “We clarified all miscommunications,” Police Chief William Kushner said.

Four injured in Aurora mobile home fire
Daily Herald reportFour people were injured Tuesday night in a fire at a mobile home in Aurora .The Aurora Fire Department responded to the fire on the 40 block of Margarets Lane at 9:10 p.m. on Tuesday, according to a news release. Upon arrival officials found a mobile home engulfed in flames.

Autopsy planned for girl found dead in Mundelein home
Daily Herald reportLake County Coroner Thomas Rudd said an autopsy will be performed Wendesday morning on a young girl who was found dead in her Mundelein bedroom on Tuesday morning.Police have said one person is in custody, but would not confirm reports about how the girl died or who was in custody.

Huntley High expansion plans head to village
By Madhu KrishnamurthyWork on a $35 million facelift of Huntley High School should begin this spring once plans are reviewed by Huntley’s plan commission and village board. The Huntley village board and Huntley District 158 school board met Tuesday to discuss the school district’s expansion plans for its Harmony Road Campus that houses Huntley High School. The village board agreed to forward the conceptual plans to...

Chicago archdiocese hid child sex abuse in suburbs
By Jamie SotonoffFather Vince McCaffrey had a history of predatory abuse when he arrived at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Wheeling in the 1980s. While McCaffrey was in Wheeling, the 10-year-old son of Jim and Kathy Laarveld became one of his victims. The Laarvelds were among the victims and family members who spoke, sometimes tearfully, in Chicago, where, as part of court settlement, the Archdiocese of Chicago...

Pentagon said to offer Russia bomb-detecting tools
BloombergThe U.S. has offered to provide Russia with high-tech equipment, including gear designed to detect homemade bombs, to help protect next month’s Winter Olympics in Sochi, according to two Pentagon officials.

Sochi forces hunt for 3 potential suicide bombers
Associated PressRussian security officials are hunting down three potential female suicide bombers, one of whom is believed to be in Sochi, where the Winter Olympics will begin next month. Police leaflets in Sochi contain warnings about three potential suicide bombers. A police letter said that one of them was at large in Sochi.

Ex-Illinois House speaker Robert Blair II dies
By KERRY LESTERSPRINGFIELD — Former House Speaker W. Robert Blair II, who helped modernize the Illinois Legislature and swiftly established a legacy as a visionary unafraid to ruffle feathers, has died, his wife said Tuesday. He was 83.

Trial begins in Chicago for 3 NATO protesters
Associated PressThe question of what makes a terrorist or merely a drunken vandal has dominated openings at the trial of three activists charged under Illinois terrorism laws with plotting attacks during the 2012 NATO summit in Chicago.

Former Va. Gov. Bob McDonnell, wife indicted
Associated PressFormer Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, once viewed as a rising star in the GOP, and his wife were indicted Tuesday on federal corruption charges accusing the couple of accepting tens of thousands of dollars in loans, shopping sprees, money for their daughter’s wedding — and even a joyride in a Ferrari — from the owner of a company that makes health supplements.

Proposed medical marijuana rules unveiled
Associated PressTo use medical marijuana in Illinois, patients would be fingerprinted, undergo a background check and pay $150 a year to get a special photo ID under proposed regulations unveiled Tuesday. In the first attempt to sort out the complicated logistics of launching a medical cannabis program, the Illinois Department of Public Health posted 48 pages of draft regulations online.

Reputed Chicago mobster claims abuse in prison
Associated PressRestrictions imposed on Chicago mob boss Joseph “Joey the Clown” Lombardo at the North Carolina federal prison where he’s serving a life sentence amount to elder abuse, his lawyers contend in a court filing.

Report: Wheeling priest may have abused teen who came for help
By Charles KeeshanWhen a 13-year-old boy went to his associate pastor at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Wheeling 30 years ago, confused over the sexual abuse he said he was suffering at the hands of the parish school’s principal, James Steel didn’t offer the young parishioner comfort. Instead, he may have sexually assaulted the teen, according to a parish report made public Tuesday.

Former Libertyville, Ingleside priest among those namedBy Russell LissauAmong the former priests named in the church documents made public Tuesday is Thomas Job, who was assigned to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville and then St. Bede Catholic Church in Ingleside, both in the 1980s. Job was named in a 2005 settlement of a lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Chicago by 24 adults who claimed they were molested by priests.

Glen Ellyn favors moving police department to Panfish Park By Joshua Welge
If Glen Ellyn pursues plans for a new police station, village trustees say they would prefer it be built in Panfish Park. The village has been discussing a new station for years in connection with a possible overhaul of its 85-year-old civic center, which houses both village offices and the police department. But faced with increasing overcrowding at the civic center, it appears officials are...

Abuse claims against ex-Round Lake pastor stretched over decades
By Charles KeeshanIt was in 1970 that Archdiocese of Chicago officials first learned that a pair of teenage girls had accused the Rev. Raymond Skriba of touching them inappropriately in the rectory of a Southwest side church. It wasn’t until more than three decades later — by which time Skriba was pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Round Lake — that the Archdiocese took action against him.

Gunman kills Purdue University teaching assistant
Associated PressPolice say the man killed in a Purdue University shooting Tuesday was a senior at the school who was a teaching assistant, and the suspect is also a student. Purdue Police Chief John Cox said Tuesday that 23-year-old Cody Cousins of Warsaw, Ind., is being held in the Tippecanoe County Jail on a preliminary charge of murder.

Documents outline abuse claims against former Arlington Heights priest
By Charles KeeshanDespite numerous complaints of inappropriate conduct toward children by a priest at an Arlington Heights parish, officials in the Archdiocese of Chicago moved him to other suburban parishes in Des Plaines and elsewhere where other abuse claims arose, according to church documents made public Tuesday. Details regarding the allegations against former priest Robert Mayer, the onetime associate...

Family: SeaWorld trainer thought whales treated OK
Associated PressThe family of a SeaWorld trainer who died in 2010 when a killer whale pulled her into the water responded Tuesday to a documentary critical of animal captivity at the marine parks, saying the woman killed would never have worked there for 15 years if she thought the whales were treated badly.

Illinois takes a frigid hit, as storm spreads east
Associated PressMuch of Illinois grappled Tuesday with a new icy wintry blast that dropped more than half a foot of snow in the Chicago area and kept temperatures in single digits, making commuting treacherous.

Dillard: Call Midwestern truce on job stealing
By Mike RiopellState Sen. Kirk Dillard of Hinsdale said if elected governor he’d work on calling a truce with other Midwestern states to try to prevent them from stealing jobs from each other. The Republican primary candidate for governor met with the Daily Herald editorial board Tuesday and said he supports tax incentives for businesses that are considering leaving Illinois if they promise to — and follow...

Man sentenced for cocaine possession in Elgin
By Barbara VitelloA Springfield man pleaded guilty Tuesday to possession of a controlled substance, in connection with an Elgin Police Department drug surveillance operation last year. In exchange for Zachary Bramlett's guilty plea, a Cook County judge sentenced him to four years in prison.

Proposed school boundary changes discussed at Lake Villa Elementary District 41 By Lee Filas
Lake Villa Elementary District 41 officials will make a final decision in the next month where children from the soon-to-be shuttered Pleviak Elementary School will attend classes in 2014-15. Superintendent John Van Pelt said the redistricting committee recommendation is to split the 469 displaced students between B.J. Hooper Elementary School in Lindenhurst and William L. Thompson Elementary...

Streamwood, V.F.W. chapter hold blood drive
Daily Herald reportThe Streamwood Blood Commission will host a blood drive in the village hall from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22. It's the first of four drives held throughout the year.

Oberweis, Truax at GOP breakfast Jan. 25
Daily Herald reportThe Schaumburg Township Republican Organization invites the public to its monthly breakfast meeting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at Chandler’s Chophouse, 401 N. Roselle Road in Schaumburg. Special guest speakers will be candidates for U.S. senator Jim Oberweis and Doug Truax, as well as subcircuit judge candidates Gary Seyring and John Curry.

Downtown Palatine street to receive facelift
Doug T. GrahamThe Palatine village council voted earlier this week to hire Bollinger Lach and Associates, a civil engineering firm based in Itasca, to design improvements to Wilson st. between Bothwell and Brockway streets. The street, which is one block east of the Palatine Metra station, could receive improvements such as better lighting, new landscaping and repairs to or the removal of existing pavement and...

Judge dismisses lawsuit filed by exonerated North Aurora dad By Harry Hitzeman
Legal Affairs Writer
A judge recently dismissed a conspiracy and malicious prosecutiion lawsuit filed by a North Aurora man who was found not guilty of scalding his toddler son in a 2011 trial. Jason Barnes was charged with heinous battery in 2009 and claimed his right to due process was violated by the Kane County state's attorney's office and its agents, police, and DCFS officials.

Zion man in 2012 Gurnee standoff pleads guilty to home invasion
By Lee FilasA Zion man who entered a Gurnee home and shot at three people inside in 2012, pleaded guilty to single counts of home invasion and aggravated cruelty to an animal in Lake County court, officials said Tuesday. Kendrick Augillard, 36, of the 4200 block of Barberry Lane, faces between 24 and 48 years in prison when he is sentenced April 10.

Geneva’s Great Harvest store closing Feb. 1
By Susan SarkauskasThe Great Harvest Bread Co. store in Geneva is closing after 20 years. The reason? "Money," said owner Marty Kane. Between huge increases in the price of commodities, a still-iffy economy and a drop in passers-by, the store isn't making enough to justify staying open, he said.

Wheeling teen faces DUI charges
By Barbara VitelloA 19-year-old Wheeling woman faces charges of aggravated DUI result in a death in a December 2013 accident that claimed the life of an 86-year-old pedestrian. A Cook County judge set bail at $10,000 for Melissa Salgado who could face from three to 14 years in prison if convicted.

Teens charged with Wheeling robbery
By Barbara VitelloThree teenagers were arrested Jan. 12, for an armed robbery in Wheeling, prosecutors said. Gerardo Arreola, Pawel Blonski and Nathan Fakhouri went to a Wheeling home to purchase cannabis, where one of the teens threatened the homeowner with a gun and ordered him to "give me everything you got."

Hoffman Estates approves two police union contracts
By Eric PetersonHoffman Estates trustees have approved new three-year contracts with the village’s patrol officers and police sergeants, the former one retroactive to the start of 2013. In addition to salary increases, the patrol officers are moving from 8-hour to 12-hour shifts and a two-tier wage system for current employees and future recruits.

Streamwood teen pleads guilty to sexually abusing toddler
By Barbara VitelloA Streamwood teenager pleaded guilty last week to sexually molesting a toddler last year. In exchange for Alejandro Hurtado's plea to the class two felony, a Cook County judge sentenced him to two years probation and ordered him to pay $1,389 in fines.

Mario Tricoci shares business tips at College of DuPage
Daily Herald reportIn the world of business, salon owner and entrepreneur Mario Tricoci says, it almost always pays to make your own breaks. “The opportunity you get is the opportunity you make,” Tricoci said Tuesday during an appearance at the College of DuPage, where he discussed his career in the beauty industry and the challenges he overcame to build his brand and reputation.

Schaumburg man pleads guilty to soliciting teen
By Barbara VitelloA Schaumburg man pleaded guilty to indecent solicitation of a child. Court records show that Michael Coza, 49, was sentenced to 24 months sex offender probation in exchange for his plea to the class 4 felony.

Study: Pollution from Chinese factories harming U.S. air quality
Washington PostBad air from China is blowing across the Pacific Ocean and contributing to smog in the United States, according to new scientific research. And much of that air pollution is being caused by the manufacturing of goods inside China for export to the United States and Europe.

Expert suggests DuPage retrain Danada horses
By Robert SanchezTo ensure the safety of residents taking horse-riding lessons at Danada Equestrian Center, an expert is recommending the Wheaton facility’s horses — and the staff members and volunteers who care for them — be retrained. It’s advice DuPage County Forest Preserve commissioners are expected to implement before the riding program at the district-owned center resumes in May.

Help a vet, catch a fish:
Daily Herald reportAn ice-fishing tournament to benefit the Wounded Heroes Foundation and Veterans R&R will be held Saturday on Bangs Lake in Wauconda.

Fox Valley police reports
Someone broke a window in the walkout basement of a home on the 35W400 block of Boncosky Road near West Dundee between 1 p.m. Jan. 4 and 1 p.m. Thursday, causing an estimated $1,000 damage, according to a sheriff’s report.

Tri-Cities police reports
Christopher J. Gareski, 22, of Montgomery, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more, and failure to reduce speed after rear-ending another vehicle at about 4:42 a.m. Monday at Hill Avenue and Montgomery Road near Aurora, according to a sheriff’s report.

Public hearings on medical marijuana ordinance planned
Daily Herald reportPublic hearings are planned on changes to a county ordinance that would create regulations for the siting and operation of medical marijuana cultivation centers and dispensaries in unincorporated areas.

Two of three suspects plead guilty to Elgin robbery
By Barbara VitelloTwo of three young men charged in the April 2013 robbery of a pizza delivery man pleaded guilty recently in Rolling Meadows, court records show. Datren Brown, 18, of Hickory Hills, pleaded guilt to armed robbery and was sentenced to six years in prison. Scott Hatfield, 20, of Elgin pleaded guilty to robbery and was sentenced to four years in prison. Charges are still pending against a third...

Fox River Grove ski tournament takes flight this weekend By Madhu Krishnamurthy
With the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games just two weeks away, winter sports enthusiasts can get into the Olympic spirit at this weekend’s 109th annual Norge Ski Jump Tournament in Fox River Grove. "You get a national Olympic sport right in your own backyard," said Gene Brown, the Norge Ski Club's corresponding secretary. "It can give people a taste of what the athletes have to go through."

Former priest assigned to Wheeling parish even after prior abuse claims
By Charles KeeshanA former priest who today remains in federal custody on a child pornography conviction was shuffled from one parish to another — including St. Joseph the Worker Church in Wheeling — before Archdiocese of Chicago officials acted to put an end to more than a decade sexual abuse, according to a report made public Tuesday.Vincent McCaffrey, who by his own admission abused 14 children while a priest,...

Brutality of Syria war casts doubt on peace talks
Associated PressSyria’s conflict was sparked by an act of brutality — the detention and torture of schoolchildren who spray-painted anti-government graffiti in a southern city. In the three years since, the conflict has evolved into one of the most savage civil wars in decades.

Arts Unlimited competition open to all in Dist. 214 community
By Eileen O. DadayLooking for a chance to take your works of prose, poetry or art out of your home studio and into the public eye? Here is your chance. The Daily Herald Community Art & Writing Contest has returned, offering community members a chance to compete alongside Northwest Suburban High School District 214 students at the annual Arts Unlimited celebration.

Synchronized skating competition lands in Hoffman Estates
By Eileen O. DadayLess than two weeks before the Winter Olympics begin in Sochi, one of the fastest growing disciplines of competitive figure skating will be on display in the Northwest suburbs: synchronized skating. The 2014 Midwestern & Pacific Coast Synchronized Skating Sectional Championships are being held Friday and Saturday at both the Sears Centre Arena and the Triphahn Community Center & Ice Arena in...

North Aurora buying 500 tons of additional road salt
By Susan SarkauskasNorth Aurora's public works superintendent, Mike Glock, believes it is better safe than sorry when it comes to the village's dwindling pile of road salt. He asked the village board Monday for the OK to spend almost $33,000 for 500 more tons. "I just don't feel safe. I just want to have myself covered," he said.

U-46 gets prepared for STEM Expo
By Madhu KrishnamurthyIt’s not your typical science fair. Elgin Area School District U-46’s upcoming STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Expo will give students a chance to explore their natural curiosities, whether it’s building an electric car or developing a new kind of fertilizer. The fifth annual STEM Expo is April 5 at South Elgin High School. The first kickoff event is 6 to 8:15 p.m. Thursday at...

Sister echoes apology of man held in North Korea
Associated PressThe sister of an American missionary detained for more than a year in North Korea echoed her brother’s apology to the nation for crimes he committed and his plea to the U.S. government to ramp up efforts to secure his release.

New trial sought for S.C. teen executed in 1944
Associated PressA 14-year-old black boy executed nearly 70 years ago is finally getting another day in court, and his lawyers plan to argue Tuesday for a new trial, saying his conviction was tainted by the segregationist-era justice system and scant evidence. George Stinney was found guilty in 1944 of killing two white girls, ages 7 and 11. The trial lasted less than a day.

Group: Japan’s dolphin roundup biggest in 4 yearsAssociated Press
TOKYO — Japanese fishermen have finished killing some of the 250 dolphins trapped recently in what activists say was the biggest roundup they have witnessed in the last four years.

Northwest suburban police blotter
By Freida GadA male driver, in a moment of road rage, got out of his Volkswagen Jetta around 4:40 p.m. Jan. 15 on the 1600 block of West Euclid Avenue in Arlington Heights and shattered a driver’s-side window on a 2002 Acura RSX with his fist. The victim tried to follow him but lost sight of his car. Damage was estimated at $500.

Excerpts of records on accused Chicago priests
Associated PressExcerpts from the documents regarding some of the Archdiocese of Chicago's more well-known accused priests. The records were made public Tuesday by lawyers for some victims after a legal settlement.

Thailand declares state of emergency for protests
Associated PressThailand’s government on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Bangkok and surrounding areas to cope with protests that have stirred up violent attacks, adding to the country’s monthslong sense of crisis.

Car bomb hits Shiite suburb of Beirut, killing 4
Associated PressA car bomb ripped through a Shiite neighborhood in south Beirut on Tuesday, killing four people and sending plumes of smoke over the area in the latest attack to target supporters of Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah group. It was the second bombing in the neighborhood of Haret Hreik this month amid a series of attacks that have shaken Lebanon in a spillover of Syria’s civil war into its smaller...

Russia, Iran criticize Tehran snub for Syria talks
Associated PressRussia and Iran criticized the U.N. chief’s decision to withdraw Tehran’s invitation to join this week’s peace conference on Syria, as delegates began to arrive in Switzerland on Tuesday for the long-awaited talks that aim to end the Syrian civil war.

Rights group calls for ‘real pressure’ on Syria
Associated PressA leading human rights group accused the United States and other world powers Tuesday of undermining efforts to bring Syrian President Bashar Assad before the International Criminal Court. The New York-based Human Rights Watch said the U.S. had focused too strongly on bringing the warring parties together for peace talks at the expense of putting “real pressure” on Assad’s regime to end...

Christie cancels inauguration party because of weather
Associated PressN.J. Gov. Chris Christie, who starts a second term with multiple investigations into his administration’s tactics underway, will accentuate bipartisanship and diversity in his inaugural speech Tuesday. The governor of New Jersey had to modify the schedule of inaugural events because a severe winter storm threatens to dump up to a foot of snow on the region Tuesday.

Reports shed light on Great Lakes water levels
Associated PressScientists are reporting new findings about the relationship between evaporation, precipitation and changing water levels in the Great Lakes. In a paper being released Tuesday, researchers say the role played by ice that covers sections of the lakes during cold winters is more complex than previously believed.

Chef to discuss benefits of cooking healthy at Naperville library
By Mary RakoczyHe’s been in the company of celebrity chefs like Alton Brown, Guy Fieri and Giada De Laurentiis. Now, chef Judson Todd Allen, a former finalist on the “The Next Food Network Star,” will visit Naperville Public Library with his wide smiles, delicious eats and healthy tips.

Lake in the Hills opposes Randall-Rt. 62 improvements By Madhu Krishnamurthy
Lake in the Hills village officials are intent on fighting a McHenry County Division of Transportation proposal for a continuous flow intersection at Randall and Algonquin roads, Village President Paul Mulcahy said last week. The CFI is part of MCDOT's plan to improve the 3½-mile stretch of Randall Road from Ackman Road to County Line Road in Algonquin. “The county is working with flawed...

Snow moves on, but cold moves in
By Lee FilasThe snow has mostly moved on, but temperatures have dropped well below the frigid mark. It's only 4 degrees this morning, but wind chills will make it feel like it's 20 degrees below zero. About 5-inches of snow has fallen over night in some areas.

Dispute arises over Milton Township assessor's layoffs By Jessica Cilella
Milton Township Assessor Chris LeVan has been in his position for less than a month, but he already has fired seven employees, leaving people who worked in the office for years scrambling to find new jobs. LeVan says the previous assessor strained the budget. But former Assessor Bob Earl says, "This is a political firing."

Despite pension reform, state deficit will growAssociated PressRecent pension reform legislation has been hailed as historic and groundbreaking, but the $160 billion savings plan ultimately won't make much of a dent in the state's growing deficits, a report released Tuesday says. “The deficit has gotten off the front burner,” institute Director Chris Mooney said. “And the pension solution, while important in terms of (its effect on) the...

Guadalupe organizers shocked by $30,000 Des Plaines police billBy Christopher Placek
Organizers of the Our Lady of Guadalupe feast day celebration in Des Plaines will meet with the top brass of the city's police department today to discuss the $30,000 bill the city sent for providing police traffic control during the event. The bill was expected to be only about $2,500. “It was never clear the bill would go up that much. That was never part of the conversation,” said...

Sports

Aurora Christian notches 1st win over Rosary By John Lemon
Rosary came into Tuesday night’s Suburban Christian Conference crossover clash at Aurora Christian having never lost to the Eagles, a streak that included a 25-point win earlier this season. Aurora Christian broke through in convincing fashion. Senior Alyssa Andersen scored the game’s first 4 points and 9 of her team’s first 11 on her way to a game-high 19 points and 6 steals. The Eagles never trailed in a 56-42 victory to get that Rosary monkey off its backs.

Prospect savors the flavor of bounce-back victory
Daily Herald reportProspect’s girls basketball team was not all that thrilled with its play on Saturday at the 24th annual McDonald’s Shootout in Villa Park. “That loss to Wheaton Warrenville South (61-46) left kind of a sour taste,” said Knights coach Ashley Graham. So the taste of victory felt good on Tuesday in Glenview. Junior Taylor Will scored a game-high 18 points and classmate Catherine Sherwood added 16 as Prospect (17-4) topped host Glenbrook South 40-38 in the nonconference girls basketball game.

Rolling Meadows defeats Glenbard South
By D.J. WanbergRolling Meadows boys basketball coach Kevin Katovich liked how his team responded to host Glenbard South on Tuesday on two fronts during the Mustangs’ 55-48 victory.

Glenbard South leaves no doubt
By Stan GoffGlenbard South guard Steffy Bazigos was having too much fun Tuesday night to notice her right hand was swollen, much less ever think about asking to come out.

Sycamore controls Burlington Central
By Jerry FitzpatrickIt was a far different Sycamore boys basketball team that controlled host Burlington Central throughout Tuesday’s 64-49 nonconference game than the one the Rockets defeated 54-51 on Nov. 30. Nine players on the Sycamore basketball roster also played football for a successful team that lost to Montini in a Class 5A state semifinal on Nov. 23. Those players had only the benefit a walk-through before they faced Central at the Spartans’ annual Thanksgiving tournament, according to Spartans coach Drew Stacy.

Blackhawks game day
Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena, 7 p.m. WednesdayTV: NBCSNRadio: WGN-AM 720The skinny: A Red Wings team that has been plagued by injuries was hit again Monday against St. Louis when goalie Jimmy Howard left the game with a knee injury. He joins Pavel Datsyuk, Johan Franzen and Daniel Alfredsson on the sidelines. The Blackhawks, who have won seven straight regular-season games against Detroit, will go for No. 8 with Corey Crawford in goal against Jonas Gustavsson.Next: Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center, 7 p.m. Thursday — Mike Spellman

Geneva tames Glenbard N. to snap 2-game skid
By Craig BrueskeLooking to recover from back-to-back weekend setbacks, Geneva’s girls basketball team pulled away from Glenbard North in the fourth quarter during its 47-28 nonconference victory Tuesday night in Geneva. Senior guard Sidney Santos canned a 3-pointer during a 9-0 run to open the fourth quarter as the Vikings (13-5) turned a 34-23 lead into a more comfortable 43-23 advantage with 3:18 remaining.

Parola, Mundelein get another ‘W’
By Joe AguilarAs the points and made shots from beyond the arc had piled up for Derek Parola in the New Year, one number hadn’t budged for Mundelein’s basketball team. That changed Tuesday night. Parola kept up his January hot streak by scoring 32 points, including seven 3-pointers, as the Mustangs bumped their win total from 1 to 2 with a 76-61 victory over visiting Grant in a North Suburban Conference crossover. It was the first win for Mundelein (2-18) since Nov. 26 against Lakes, snapping a 17-game losing streak.

Huntley rolls over McHenry
By Steve NicholsFormer Hoffman Estates coach and current Huntley assistant Bill Wandro joked that Huntley head coach Marty Manning was a bit of a worrywart all week. But Manning had good reason to worry about his team’s five-game win streak and spotless conference record in McHenry Tuesday night, since the Warriors had knocked off Crystal Lake South at home on Jan 10. And in Manning’s tenure, Huntley had never won by double digits in the McHenry West gym. “It’s always a tight game,” Manning said. “(McHenry) always plays with so much energy, they seem to shoot the ball extremely well on their home floor.” Except this time all the worry went for naught after the Red Raiders (11-4) came away with a 61-41 Fox Valley Conference Valley Division blowout for their sixth-straight win, a perfect (4-0) conference record and a sigh of relief for Manning, who can knock off the double-digit win in McHenry off his bucket list.

Lessons learned, Hersey handles Grayslake Central
By John LeuschHersey’s seniors got to honor their favorite high school mentors prior to Tuesday’s nonconference girls basketball game with visiting Grayslake Central. “It something we’ve done every season since I’ve been here, ” said Mary Fendley, who is in her 16th season as Hersey’s head coach. “The seniors put a lot of hours in with the teaching staff here and they like to show their appreciation.” Fendley asks them to pick one teacher. “But trust me,” she added. “They bring a much bigger list.” Hersey also brings a pretty good basketball team to the floor. The Huskies won for the 18th time in 20 games, defeating the Rams 47-33 at the Ken Carter Gymnasium in Arlington Heights.

St. Viator cruises at Glenbrook North Daily Herald reportSt. Viator rolled past host Glenbrook North on Tuesday in nonconference play, improving to 14-3 with a 92-38 victory over the Spartans.

Hampshire comes up just short at Woodstock
By Allen OshinskiHampshire just came up one shot short. The Whip-Purs made a couple of key shots down the stretch, but couldn’t get a final one to go down, and they fell to Woodstock, 61-59, in Fox Valley Conference Fox Division boys basketball action in Woodstock Tuesday night.

Jacobs finds the energy for another win
By Dave HessPlaying its fifth game in four days, the Jacobs boys basketball team didn’t know if fatigue would be a factor. It wasn’t. Fueled by adrenaline, a 24-point effort by Chris Orange and a great defensive effort by Ben Murray, the Golden Eagles mustered enough energy to produce a 47-43 victory over Cary-Grove in Fox Valley Conference Valley Division action in Algonquin Tuesday night, the Eagles’ third straight win, all coming in the span of just over 24 hours.

Dundee-Crown can’t slow down Prairie Ridge
By Brian SchaumburgThe Dundee-Crown boys basketball couldn’t limit Prairie Ridge’s runs Tuesday night. The Wolves had three runs in which they outscored the Chargers by at least 10 points and came away with a 54-43 Fox Valley Conference Valley Division victory in Crystal Lake.

Blackhawks still excited to face Detroit
By Mike SpellmanGo ahead and try to convince the Blackhawks there’s still not a rivalry with the Red Wings.For that matter, go ahead and try to convince Hawks fans of the same thing. Yeah, good luck with that.

Stevenson maintains order against Lakes
By Bill PemsteinMaybe it was an omen. Of course, it was in no way intentional. But when it was time to introduce the visiting Eagles of Lakes, guard Ethan Sage was announced to the crowd as Sage Ethan. The challenge was daunting enough on Tuesday night. Sure, visiting Lakes came to Lincolnshire with a three-game winning streak, but waiting for the Eagles was a Stevenson’s team that’s only lost once all year. Lakes (8-11) actually played right with the Patriots for the last three quarters of this NSC crossover game Tuesday night. It was that first quarter that put the Eagles on their heels. Stevenson standouts Connor Cashaw and Jalen Brunson outscored Lakes in the first quarter as Stevenson (15-1) opened up a 23-4 first quarter lead on the way to beating the Eagles 64-36.

Defending champ Azarenka out of Australian Open
Victoria Azarenka’s 18-match winning streak at the Australian Open ended in an upset 6-1, 5-7, 6-0 quarterfinal loss to Agnieszka Radwanska on Wednesday to continue the flow of stars tumbling out of the season’s first major.

Boys basketball/Fox Valley roundup
Daily Herald reportSt. Edward 78, Guerin 55: The Green Wave (16-4) were able to bounce back after a loss, winning big over Guerin in a Suburban Christian Conference crossover game on the road. Up by just 7 at the half, the Green Wave used a big offensive outburst from Nick Duffy in the third along with a stifling defense and was able to expand the lead to 19 points going into the fourth quarter. Duffy scored 8 of his 14 points in the third period. Joseph French and Davontae Elam each went big for St. Edward, scoring 15 points each in the eventual 23-point victory.Hoffman Estates 51, Streamwood 42: Despite a 19-point performance from senior Jacob Siewert, the Sabres (2-19) were unable to get the help needed at home, falling in a nonconference matchup. Siewert put 3 3-pointers through the net, 2 in the third quarter alone, to try and spark an offense that had 17 baskets and only went to free-throw line 7 times. Junior Cole Seger added 11 points for the Sabres.

No. 3 Michigan State beats Indiana 71-66
Associated PressGary Harris scored 20 of his 24 points in the second half, helping No. 3 Michigan State beat Indiana 71-66 on Tuesday night to remain unbeaten in the Big Ten. The Spartans (18-1, 7-0) have won 11 straight games, extending their best one-loss start in a season in school history. The Hoosiers (12-7, 2-4) have lost two straight and four of six.

Florida State edges past Notre Dame 76-74
Associated PressIan Miller hit a floater in the lane with 4 seconds remaining to give Florida State a 76-44 win against Notre Dame in their first meeting as Atlantic Coast Conference opponents. Aaron Thomas scored 20 points in his first start of the season as Florida State held on. Miller finished with 11 points and the biggest bucket of the game. Teammate Okaro White chipped in 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Hampshire falls to Woodstock North
Daily Herald reportWoodstock North 54, Hampshire 52 (OT): Despite a 3-point lead going into the fourth quarter, the Whip-Purs (7-12, 2-6) could not hang on in the Fox Valley Conference Fox Division matchup, dropping their fourth game in a row, and falling to 2-8 in their last 10 games. Emma Benoit, Tricia Dumoulin and Sara Finn combined for 44 points for the Whips. Finn led all scorers with 16 points, also adding 5 assists and 2 steals, while Benoit and Dumoulin chipped in 14 points each.

Fremd’s best in MSL West
Daily Herald reportFremd wrapped up the Mid-Suburban West girls gymnastics title on Tuesday, producing a score of 148.9 to top host Conant (137.95) and Hoffman Estates (111.15). Vikings senior Christine Jensen won balance beam (9.55) and floor exercise (9.3) and had the top all-around total (37.6).

Wolves can’t hold lead, fall to Comets
Daily Herald News ServicesThe Chicago Wolves held the lead midway through their first visit to Utica Memorial Auditorium, but the Utica Comets rallied to earn a 2-1 victory Tuesday night.Rookie right wing Ty Rattie produced the lone goal for the Wolves (21-15-2-2), while all-star goaltender Jake Allen (16-10-2) stopped 28 of 30 shots.

With Hinrich out, Bulls likely to sign James
By Mike McGrawIt's unclear how long Kirk Hinrich will be out with a right hamstring strain. But the injury is serious enough that the Bulls are planning to bring back veteran point guard Mike James on a 10-day contract. Marquis Teague was officially traded to Brooklyn on Tuesday.

Cubs should know a contract is a contract
By Mike ImremThe Cubs thought they had a difficult time getting out from under Alfonso Soriano's contract. That was nothing compared to the contract with rooftop owners, who probably wouldn't agree to a trade to New York like Soriano did.

Deng, Bulls: Friends forever, foes for now
By Mike McGrawThere will be some emotions when the Bulls play against former teammate Luol Deng for the first time on Wednesday in Cleveland. But they made this much clear, there is no room for friendship when it comes to winning games.

Steverson: Sky’s the limit for Eaton, Davidson
By Scot GregorAttending SoxFest this weekend? Be sure to check out two new players - center fielder Adam Eaton and third baseman Matt Davidson - who both played with the Arizona Diamondbacks last season.

Opera star to sing national anthem at Super Bowl
Associated PressThe Super Bowl will have a touch of the classical this year: Opera star Renee Fleming will sing the national anthem.The four-time Grammy winner will perform before the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks play at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Feb 2. Fleming is the first opera star to

Ex-NFL player’s wreck case to head to jury
Associated PressA jury will soon decide whether to convict former Dallas Cowboys player Josh Brent for a car accident that killed a teammate and close friend. Brent’s trial for intoxication manslaughter in the December 2012 death of Jerry Brown wraps up Tuesday with closing arguments. The case then goes to the jury.

Goodell suggests ditching the PAT kick
Associated PressRoger Goodell doesn’t want to stand pat with the PAT. He’s suggesting potential changes in the extra point that, well, might have some legs. The NFL commissioner says the extra point kick after touchdowns, which had a success rate of nearly 100 percent in 2013, is too automatic.

Seattle’s Sherman writes he’s not villainous
Associated PressSeattle cornerback Richard Sherman said in a column for SI.com that he’s not a villainous person. He wrote on Monday that his postgame interview Sunday with Fox reporter Erin Andrews stemmed from adrenaline and his dislike for San Francisco wide receiver Michael Crabtree.

Federer vs Murray a quarterfinal worthy of a major finalAssociated Press
MELBOURNE, Australia — As Roger Federer sees it, he and Andy Murray are making a comeback from a year of ups and downs.That’s putting it mildly. For 32-year-old Federer, the winner of 17 Grand Slam titles, 2013 was the year that his tenure near the top went into sharp decline. He slipped out of the Top 5 and failed to reach a Grand Slam final for the first time since 2002. He struggled with back problems, split with his coach and it appeared that age was taking its toll.For Murray, the year included a stupendous success. He won Wimbledon, becoming the first British man in 77 years to win the coveted title at the All England Club. A few months later he underwent back surgery that forced him to sit out the last three months of the season.Both are now back, feeling fit and healthy as they prepare to face each other in the Australian Open quarterfinals Wednesday. It will be the first time they’ve played since last year’s semifinal at Melbourne Park, a five-set battle won by Murray.“This is a big test for me,” said No. 6-seeded Federer, adding that he now feels fit enough to tackle big challenges. “I’ve overcome a lot in the last few months.”“I’m looking forward to the match, I must say. We had an interesting year last year with some ups and downs. It’s a good start to the season for both of us.”When the tournament started a week ago, Federer was not among the favorites to win. But his return to Melbourne has marked a return of the old Federer — his graceful strokes and his ability to make incredible shots look effortless. But there are also elements of a new Federer. His back is better, he’s testing out a new racket with a bigger head and has a new coach, six-time Grand Slam winner Stefan Edberg. He’s also been trying out some different tactics successfully, like rushing to the net. In his fourth-round match against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Federer came to net 41 times and won 82 percent of those points.“I was good at net. I was consistent. I was solid. I was quick,” said Federer, whose self-confidence has also returned. He hasn’t dropped a set on his way to the quarterfinals. “I don’t have doubts anymore. I know I’m going definitely in the right direction.”When Murray speaks, he is characteristically more modest. After minor back surgery in September, he says his back is “pretty good so far,” apart from some occasional stiffness and soreness.The three-time Australian Open finalist has also spoken about the mental challenges of coming back after surgery and needing to rebuild his confidence after not playing in front of big crowds for three months.“I need to play a great match to win,” said Murray, who has an 11-9 edge over Federer in head-to-heads. “You play 10 percent below your best, you can be off the court quickly.”Federer is bidding for a record fifth Australian Open title, but it won’t be easy. If he beats Murray, he could face a semifinal against No. 1 Rafael Nadal, who next plays first-time major quarterfinalist Grigor Dimitrov.A win there for Federer could set up a final against fellow Swiss and No. 8-seeded Stan Wawrinka who staged the upset of the men’s tournament Tuesday in a dramatic five-set quarterfinal against No. 1 Novak Djokovic, the three-time defending champion. Wawrinka faces No. 8 Tomas Berdych in the semifinals.Shortly after Wawrinka’s victory, Federer dashed off a tweet to congratulate him.“So deserving for Stan the man” Federer tweeted, with the hashtags “nevergiveup” and “whatamatch.”

In NFL, defense still wins championships
By Mike NorthAfter watching the title games on Sunday, Mike North believes the Chicago Bears are many years away from winning a Super Bowl because they don't have a defense. And he says Johnny Manziel has many of the traits of the Seattle Seahawks' QB Russell Wilson to succeed in the NFL as long as he acts with Wilson’s maturity level.

Let Seahawks’ Sherman have his say, be his way
By Mike ImremCornerbacks usually aren't widely recognizable to casual sports fans but Richard Sherman is on his way to becoming one of the NFL's most famous players. Or is it one of the most infamous? And does it matter as long as his name is spelled correctly?

Images: Daily Herald prep photos of the week
The Daily Herald Prep Photos of the Week gallery includes the best high school sports images by our photographers featuring the best from girls basketball, wrestling, swimming, gymnastics and boys basketball.

Business

Panera store adjacent to Spring Hill Mall
By Lenore T. AdkinsBy the end of the year, bread lovers in and around Carpentersville will have a new place to score their favorite treats. Panera Bread has announced plans to open a free-standing shop this fall near the Carpentersville portion of Spring Hill Mall.

Chicago Slaughter cancels season at Sears Centre
By Eric PetersonThe Chicago Slaughter indoor football team has canceled its scheduled 2014 season at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates, potentially leaving the door open for a completely new franchise to operate there in 2015. And with the simultaneous resting of the Chicago Rush at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, this winter is likely to be the first season since 2001 without any arena football in the Chicago-area market, Sears Centre General Manager Ben Gibbs said.

Sears to close its flagship State Street store
By Anna Marie KukecHoffman Estates-based Sears said Tuesday it plans to close its flagship store in downtown Chicago. The Sears store, which opened in 2001 at 2 N. State St., is expected to close by early April. A liquidation sale starts on Sunday, said Howard Riefs, a spokesman for parent company Sears Holdings, which also owns Kmart stores. “These decisions are never easy,” said Riefs. “But the store has lost millions of dollars since opening and we can no longer continue to support the store’s operating losses. The State Street store’s operational performance has been poor through much of its existence.”

Higher-income Americans hit hardest by tax changes
Associated PressHigher-income Americans and some legally married same-sex couples are likely to feel the biggest hits from tax law changes when they file their federal returns in the next few months. Taxpayers also will have a harder time taking medical deductions.

Mixed earnings hold back U.S. stocks
The Standard & Poor’s 500 index logged a small gain Tuesday on a mixed day for the stock market. Health-care giant Johnson & Johnson slipped after it warned that pressure to keep prices low would likely mean slightly lower profits than forecast. Delta Air Lines gained after reporting a better-than-expected profit in the fourth quarter as fares and traffic rose.

Peltz joins Mondelez board, backs off PepsiCo deal
Associated PressActivist investor Nelson Peltz is no longer pushing for PepsiCo to buy Deerfield-based Mondelez and create a global snack foods giant, after Mondelez on Tuesday named him to its board of directors.

Gay juror removed improperly in Abbott antitrust case
Gay juror removed improperly in Abbott antitrust caseSAN FRANCISCO — A federal appeals court has ruled that potential jurors may not be removed from a trial during jury selection solely because of sexual orientation.The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an opinion on Tuesday stating that striking someone from a jury pool because he is gay constitutes discrimination.The ruling came in an antitrust dispute between two rival drug companies and a popular AIDS drug. A lawyer for Abbott Laboratories used one of his allotted preemptory challenges to remove a potential juror who had referred to a male partner during questioning. The jury that was eventually seated mostly ruled in favor of Abbott.The 9th Circuit says that because the juror was taken off the case without justification, a new trial must be held.

Link between arrests, Target breach under investigationAssociated PressTwo Mexican citizens who were arrested at the border used account information stolen during the Target security breach to buy tens of thousands of dollars' worth of merchandise, according to a South Texas police chief. But a spokesman for the U.S. Secret Service said Tuesday that an investigation is ongoing into the possibility of a link between the Target data breach and the arrests in Texas.

Insurance through work? Health law affects you, too
Associated PressThe health care overhaul’s reach stretches far beyond the millions of uninsured Americans it is expected to help. It also could touch everything from the drug choices to doctor bills of people who have insurance through work. The law isn’t expected to prompt sudden, radical changes for workers. But benefits experts say there are several ways the law can leave fingerprints on the benefits of the roughly 149 million people who are covered through their jobs.

Cause of deadly Omaha plant explosion unknown
Associated PressAfter a blast caused much of an Omaha manufacturing plant to collapse, some workers found themselves buried in debris and others scrambled for their lives. Two of the 38 workers who were at the International Nutrition plant on Monday morning died and 10 were hospitalized with significant injuries, authorities said. A firefighter was also sent to the hospital with an injured hand.

German economic index suggests upswing continuingAssociated Press
FRANKFURT, Germany — A widely followed index of German business optimism dipped unexpectedly in January but remained at a high level, suggesting an ongoing upswing in Europe’s largest economy.The index published Tuesday by the ZEW, or Centre for European Economic Research, eased to 61.7 points from 62 in December. Market analysts had expected a rise to 64. Index above long-term averageThe ZEW said the index, despite its small drop, was “hovering at a high level” well above its long-term average of 24.4 points. ZEW President Clemens Fuest said the figure confirmed expectations for an economic upswing among the financial market experts who were surveyed. Stronger growth expectedGermany’s economy expanded only 0.4 percent in 2013 but stronger growth is expected this year as the country’s eurozone trade partners slowly put their financial crises behind them. Jonathan Loynes, chief European economist at Capital Economics in London, said that “the optimistic tone of the survey supports our expectation that Germany will record relatively solid growth of about 1.5 percent in 2014.”Strong Euro could hurt economyHe cautioned that “even the super-competitive German economy” could suffer from a stronger euro that could hold back exports. Selling cars and industrial machinery abroad is a pillar of Germany’s economy, which has low unemployment and a strong trade surplus.The index is based on a survey made Jan. 6-20 of 254 investment analysts.

Study: Despite pension reform, Ill. deficit grows
Associated PressRecent pension reform legislation has been hailed as historic and groundbreaking, but the $160 billion savings plan ultimately won’t make much of a dent in the state’s growing deficits, a report released Tuesday says. While the changes to the state’s major public pension systems will eliminate their unfunded liability over the next 25 years, the state’s deficit will increase to $13 billion during that time.

Halliburton 4Q profit up on international strength
Associated PressHalliburton’s fourth-quarter net income rose 19 percent, led by growth in its international operations. The oilfield-services company’s results beat Wall Street expectations and its shares rose almost 2 percent in premarket trading Tuesday. The Houston-based company earned $793 million, or 93 cents per share, for the three months ended Dec. 31. That compares with $669 million, or 72 cents per share, a year earlier.

Vatican monsignor arrested for money laundering
Associated PressA Vatican monsignor already on trial for allegedly plotting to smuggle 20 million euros ($26 million) from Switzerland to Italy was arrested Tuesday in a separate case for allegedly using his Vatican bank accounts to launder money. Financial police in the southern Italian city of Salerno said Monsignor Nunzio Scarano, dubbed “Monsignor 500” for his purported favored banknotes, had transferred millions of euros in fictitious donations from offshore companies through his accounts at the Vatican’s Institute for Religious Works.

Verizon posts $5.07B profit for 4Q
Associated PressVerizon posted fourth-quarter net income of $5.07 billion, helped by the continued addition of more wireless devices to its network. The results beat Wall Street expectations and its shares edged higher in premarket trading Tuesday. The largest U.S. cellphone carrier’s profit amounted to $1.76 per share.

More in suburbs going online to have groceries delivered By Jamie Sotonoff
Whether it's the lousy weather, the recent grocery store shake-ups, or just a changing consumer mindset, online grocery shopping and delivery services are booming in the Chicago suburbs. “People are just more comfortable with buying everything on the Internet now,” Peapod Chief Operating Officer Mike Brennan said.

Italian conductor Claudio Abbado dies at 80
Claudio Abbado, a star in the great generation of Italian conductors revered for developing a rapport with members of the world’s leading orchestras while still allowing them their independence, died Monday. He was 80. Abbado made his debut in 1960 at La Scala in his home city of Milan and went on to be its music director for nearly 20 years. Among his many other positions were as music director of the Vienna State Opera, the Berlin Philarmonic and the London Symphony Orchestra and as principal guest conductor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Go for the food: Find sublime ice cream in Sicily
By Amir BibawySicilians pride themselves on their contribution to the world of ice cream. History may not credit them definitively with the invention of the frozen treat, but it turns out that nature allowed them to have ice long before electricity made its way to the Mediterranean island. And within Italy, which already takes credit for making gelato a world favorite, Sicilians deservedly top the list of the best ice-cream makers.

Kurt Russell remembers Paul Walker at Sundance
By Ryan Pearson, Associated PressCalling his late castmate Paul Walker “a terrific guy,” Kurt Russell says he’s not sure what will happen with his role in the latest “Fast & Furious” movie. Russell joined the seventh film in the franchise and plays a father figure to Vin Diesel’s character Dominic Toretto. The 62-year-old actor said he had one day left of filming when Walker died in a car crash outside Los Angeles last November.

Introducing Jennifer Nettles as a solo artist
By Kristin M. HallCountry singer Jennifer Nettles is a bit nervous about starting over. She’s spent years drawing fans and accolades as a part of Grammy Award-winning Sugarland, but now that duo is on hiatus while she sets off on her solo career. “I think any time one takes the risk of reinvention and really puts herself out there in a new way, there are fears,” Nettles said. Her new album, “That Girl,” released last Tuesday, is like the debut of an up-and-coming singer-songwriter that highlights her powerful vocals paired with simple backing music.

Celebs flock to honor Ringo Starr before Grammys
By Beth Harris, Associated PressRingo Starr got an early start to Grammy week, with famous friends honoring him for his life and work. The former Beatle received the Lifetime of Peace and Love award from the David Lynch Foundation on Monday night during a tribute concert at the El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles. In turn, Starr led the crowd in singing happy birthday to Lynch, the director known for “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive,” who was celebrating his 68th birthday.

Hall won’t rule out return to playing Dexter
By Ryan Pearson, Associated PressPossible bad news for Oregon loggers: Michael C. Hall won’t rule out a return to playing Dexter. But he’d want to see the finish line. Hall, promoting his movie “Cold in July” at the Sundance Film Festival, said in an interview over the weekend that he agreed with Showtime executives who recently declared that any potential spinoff series would have to include Hall.

Katie Couric makes documentary debut at Sundance
By Sandy Cohen, Associated PressAlong with her soon-to-end daytime talk show, fall engagement and recent move from TV to the web as Yahoo’s global anchor, Katie Couric also made a documentary feature shown at Sundance. “Fed Up” premiered Sunday at the Sundance Film Festival. Couric linked up with “An Inconvenient Truth” producer Laurie David to make a film that explores the epidemic of childhood obesity and its not-so-obvious causes. Couric produced and narrates the film.

'Wii Fit U,' 'Xbox Fitness' feel the burn By Derrik J. Lang, Associated PressWhile video game consoles can't help users save money or stop smoking — yet, anyway — there are a few recently released games that can help with the most popular of New Year's resolutions: exercise. Here's a look at four titles that offer an alternative to working out at the gym or with a personal trainer.

Baking secrets: Creating new traditions with brioche
By Annie OverboeMaking brioche calls for various flours, oodles of eggs and copious amounts of softened butter. Handling the dough through chilling and multiple rising stages can span two days. Annie Overboe set out to create a recipe that didn’t cut corners as much as cut the time commitment.

Lentils have culinary uses way beyond soups and stews By Joe Yonan
As a relatively new vegetarian, Joe Yonan realizes that lentils can — nay, should — be nothing short of a dietary staple. They're nutritious. They're inexpensive. They're quick-cooking (NO SOAKING!). And, best of all, they're more versatile than he had ever imagined.

Hader relished Wiig’s support in ‘Skeleton Twins’
By Jessica HerndonBill Hader and Kristen Wiig are accustomed to sharing the same stage — and keeping a crowd in stitches — since starring on “Saturday Night Live” together from 2005 to 2013. But in their new film “Skeleton Twins,” they get melodramatic. “This being my first drama and also the biggest role I’ve had in a movie, it was nice having her there supporting me and keeping me relaxed,” said Hader at the film’s post-premiere party.

Right at home: Personal libraries are retreats
By Kim Cook, Associated PressWith the advent of tablets, phones and e-readers, could the book-lined home library go the way of the formal dining room? Not a chance, designers and retailers say. Digital and print books can co-exist, says House Beautiful’s editor in chief Newell Turner. “When there’s an endless river of (digital) content, the words, text and images we choose to print and bind into a physical book will make (it) even more special,” she says. And books, in their variety of shapes and sizes, can be art in their own right, she says.

‘Romeo and Juliet’ with Bloom becomes a V-Day film
By Mark Kennedy, Associated PressThis Valentine’s Day, why not offer your loved one a timeless Broadway romance — without ever leaving your neighborhood? Content provider Screenvision and the new company BroadwayHD teamed up to record the recent Orlando Bloom-led production of “Romeo and Juliet” and broadcast it to movie theaters across the country Feb. 13-19.

Schaumburg High grad glides into commercial successBy Jamie Sotonoff and Dann Gire“Weird” and “cool” more or less sum up Schaumburg native Michael Carlson's brief acting career so far. He's clocked 12 television commercials and several more on the Internet, and he's already making a sustainable living at something he loves doing. And it all began five days after moving to California where a couple of his friends from Illinois State University had already paved the way.

De Niro honors late father with documentary
By Alicia RancilioCreativity runs in the De Niro family. Robert De Niro’s father, Robert De Niro Sr., was an abstract expressionist painter, part of the post-WWII art scene, which produced such talent as Jackson Pollock. He was even endorsed by the famed art collector and socialite, Peggy Guggenheim. But while he was successful when he started out in the 1940s and '50s, De Niro Sr.’s work went out of style as pop art became the trend in the '60s.

Best bets: American Grands XIX tickles the ivories By Scott C. Morgan
Nearly 500 performers will play across 12 grand pianos at the American Grands XIX concert in Elgin Saturday. Savion Glover brings his tap show "STePz" to Millennium Park's Harris Theater. And comedian Erik Griffin (from Comedy Central's "Workaholics") plays Zanies in Rosemont and Chicago.

Asian-Americans face barriers to health care
A letter to the editor: As our nation continues to pursue health justice for all and the civil and human right to health care, we know that more work needs to be done, especially among minorities and immigrants, who are much more likely to be uninsured than the rest of the population.

Never give up hope even after loss
A letter to the editor: At 17, I watched my father die. I lost a father, but someone else might have lost a mother, a grandparent, an aunt, an uncle. We all have wounds in our hearts we are trying to heal. They hurt, they ache. But don’t dwell on the sadness, because if we learned anything from losing someone we love, it’s that life is too short to not go out and make the best of it.